How to Prepare Your Hotel or Resort for Interior Photography
How to Prepare Your Hotel or Resort for Interior Photography
Capturing stunning images of your hotel or resort requires more than just a skilled photographer—it also depends on how well the space is prepared. Proper preparation ensures that every shot highlights the beauty, atmosphere, and unique features of your property. Here’s a guide to getting your guest rooms, amenities, and common areas ready for a professional interior photoshoot.
Final shot of a fully styled room. Compare it with the before image to see the transformation and the key enhancements that created a polished, professional look.
1. General Preparation for All Spaces
Cleanliness: Ensure all areas are clean, as dust, fingerprints, and smudges can be highly visible in high-resolution images.
Declutter & Organize: Remove unnecessary items such as dustbins, fire extinguishers, and excess furniture to create a neat and spacious look.
Lighting Check: Replace any burnt-out bulbs and ensure all lighting fixtures match in color temperature.
Styling Details: Incorporate fresh flowers, decorative pieces, and well-arranged furniture to enhance visual appeal.
Avoid Dated Items: Remove promotional brochures, festive decor, or anything that may indicate a specific time period to keep images timeless.
2. Guest Rooms & Suites
Bed Presentation: Beds should be perfectly made with crisp linens, fluffed pillows, and wrinkle-free duvets.
Remove Personal Items: Hide any personal belongings, brochures, or operational signage that may distract from the aesthetic.
Adjust Curtains & Blinds: Ensure curtains are symmetrically arranged and allow in the right amount of natural light.
Bathroom Touch-Ups: Stock with neatly folded towels, high-end toiletries, and ensure mirrors are spotless.
3. Lobby & Lounge Areas
Seating Arrangements: Ensure furniture is positioned to create an inviting and spacious feel.
Decor & Ambiance: Turn on fireplaces, adjust lighting levels, and include subtle decorative elements.
Guest-Free Zones: Schedule the shoot during off-peak hours to capture clean, distraction-free images.
4. Restaurants & Dining Areas
Table Settings: Arrange tables as if prepared for service with polished cutlery, glassware, and elegant place settings.
Food & Beverage Styling: Consider having signature dishes or drinks photographed to enhance the atmosphere.
Proper Lighting Balance: Adjust ambient lighting to create a welcoming and warm feel.
Kitchen Preparation: Clear messy areas and arrange utensils and tools neatly to maintain a professional and organized look.
5. Gym & Wellness Facilities
Organized Equipment: Arrange workout machines neatly and remove clutter.
Clean & Sanitized: Wipe down all surfaces, ensuring mirrors and floors are spotless.
Ambiance Matters: Adjust lighting and, if applicable, turn on screens displaying fitness programs.
6. Swimming Pool & Outdoor Spaces
Clean Water & Poolside Areas: Ensure the water is crystal clear, poolside furniture is arranged, and umbrellas are properly positioned.
Set the Scene: Add rolled towels, fresh flowers, and ensure all surfaces are dry and clean.
Timing the Shot: Early morning or late afternoon lighting often provides the best natural illumination.
Final Checks Before the Shoot
Test Lighting Conditions: Walk through spaces at different times of the day to see the best natural light opportunities.
Coordinate with Staff: Inform hotel staff to minimize movement in shooting areas during scheduled times.
Have a Styling Kit on Hand: Keep extra linens, cleaning supplies, and decorative elements ready for last-minute adjustments.
Real World Case Study
When we began preparing the room pictured above, we identified three key concerns. First, the curtains were not arranged neatly. Second, the bed linens needed extra care to be properly straightened. Lastly, condensation had built up on surfaces, particularly on the doors and windows, which needed to be cleaned.
Addressing these details ensured a polished, inviting, and professional final image that truly showcases the room’s elegance and comfort. Taking the time to perfect these elements makes a significant difference in the overall quality of interior photography.
Conclusion
A well-prepared space not only makes the photographer’s job easier but also results in images that truly showcase the elegance and appeal of your hotel or resort. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your property is presented at its absolute best, helping to attract guests and elevate your brand’s image.
A well-prepared space not only makes the photographer’s job easier but also results in images that truly showcase the elegance and appeal of your hotel or resort. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your property is presented at its absolute best, helping to attract guests and elevate your brand’s image.
At Wai Kay Photography, we do more than just take photos—we provide expert consultation to help you style, organize, and prepare your spaces for the best possible results. From identifying what works to refining the details that make a difference, we guide you through the entire process to ensure your property is showcased at its finest. Contact us today to learn how we can elevate your hotel or resort’s visual presence.
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